Obama delights tourists with rare stroll

WASHINGTON (AFP) - Sightseers in Washington got more than they bargained for Wednesday, bumping into Barack Obama as the world's most powerful man decided to take an impromptu stroll in the US capital city.

In a rare foray outside the armoured-plated security of the presidential motorcade, Obama opted to walk from the White House to the Department of the Interior, a couple of blocks away.

"The bear is loose!" quipped Obama. "It's good to be out."

Obama, flanked by several bodyguards, took time to chat with a group of Israeli and Chinese tourists during his short walk, according to journalists who accompanied him.

US President Barack Obama shakes hands with Israeli tourists while walking on the Ellipse with White House counselor John Podesta near the White House in Washington on May 21, 2014. -- PHOTO: REUTERS